The Al Franken Podcast cover image

The Al Franken Podcast

Latest episodes

undefined
Oct 15, 2023 • 53min

136: BEST OF! QAnon – Weirder Than You Know!!! Author Will Sommer

Washington Post reporter Will Sommer, an expert on QAnon, discusses the bizarre conspiracy theories and beliefs associated with QAnon, including deep state, satanic pedophilia, and global sex trafficking. They explore QAnon activity in different countries, the controversy surrounding COVID-19 and hydroxychloroquine, and the intense encounter between QAnon and Alex Jones. The chapter also highlights the disturbing nature of certain content and promotes a book for those with a dark sense of humor.
undefined
Oct 8, 2023 • 50min

135: Climatologist Michael Mann on How to Talk to Climate Deniers

Climatologist Michael Mann and the host discuss various political updates, climate change choices, the history of climate change, the relationship between climate change and weather, different scenarios for addressing climate change, the increasing occurrence of extreme weather events, and the importance of taking immediate action to prevent a dystopian future.
undefined
Oct 1, 2023 • 52min

134: Norm Ornstein on the Shutdown

Discussion on the potential government shutdown and its impacts, controversies surrounding General Millie and Trump's reaction, ethical questions surrounding certain justices, the chaos in the Republican Party, and closing remarks and announcements.
undefined
Sep 24, 2023 • 48min

133: Harry Litman and George Conway!

Legal expert Harry Litman and political commentator George Conway discuss ongoing trials involving former President Donald Trump, including the Mar-a-Lago documents case and the Georgia Rico trial. They also analyze the House Judiciary hearing with Attorney General Merrick Garland. Other topics include the admissibility of witness testimony, upcoming trials, the state of the Republican Party, and the influence of baby boomers.
undefined
Sep 17, 2023 • 47min

132: Anne Applebaum on the War in Ukraine

Guest Anne Applebaum, The Atlantic writer, discusses the war in Ukraine, including the role of fake news and Putin's involvement. The podcast also explores the impact of Hunter Biden's indictment, the role of Elon Musk's Starlink system, the tension and implications of the war, negotiation challenges, Russian interference in the 2016 election, and Ukraine's fight for survival.
undefined
Sep 10, 2023 • 48min

131: Franklin Foer’s New Book on Biden: The Last Politician

Franklin Foer, The Atlantic writer, discusses Biden's presidency, highlighting his achievements in passing infrastructure legislation, addressing climate change, and investing in semiconductor manufacturing. The podcast also explores Biden's approach to the American Rescue Plan, his relationships with staff members, and challenges in intelligence infrastructure and Afghanistan.
undefined
Sep 3, 2023 • 44min

130: The Case for Universal Voting. Like in Australia!

Guest E.J. Dionne and Miles Rapoport discuss the concept of universal voting, the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, addressing voter imbalances and suppression, and the role of election officials. They also explore the potential implementation of universal voting in the United States and express hope for voting reforms.
undefined
Aug 27, 2023 • 38min

129: Molly Jong-Fast and Mark Leibovich on the GOP Debate

Discussion on the Republican debate and analysis of standout candidates. Commentary on Trump's claims and ongoing trials. Experience and chaos of reporting on a debate. Frustration with lack of substantive discussion. Strong dislike for James Comey's actions and speculation on their impact. Hope for a different GOP nominee.
undefined
Aug 20, 2023 • 51min

128: Tim Miller and Charlie Cook on the First GOP Debate

Experts Tim Miller and Charlie Cook discuss the upcoming GOP debate, speculating on Donald Trump's participation and analyzing candidates who have not signed the pledge. They also talk about the shift in Republican Party priorities, the impact of the debate on candidates like Ron DeSantis, and the results of various election races. Additionally, they introduce two new captivating podcasts: 'Think Twice: Michael Jackson' and 'SmartLess On the Road'.
undefined
Aug 13, 2023 • 49min

127: Stuart Stevens is Ashamed

Of his party and himself

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app